Find information on Ulna Fracture diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, ICD-10 codes S52, S52.0, S52.1, S52.2, and CPT codes for fracture care. Learn about distal ulna fracture, ulna shaft fracture, and closed vs open fracture types. Explore resources for accurate healthcare documentation and proper medical coding related to Ulna Fractures for optimized billing and reimbursement. This resource provides essential information for physicians, coders, and other healthcare professionals.
Also known as
Fracture of forearm
This range covers fractures of the ulna, radius, or both forearm bones.
Fracture of skull and facial bones
While not directly related to ulna fractures, this includes codes for other bone fractures.
Superficial injury to different body regions
May be relevant if the ulna fracture is associated with superficial injuries like abrasions.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the ulna fracture open or closed?
Open
Gustilo Grade?
Closed
Specific site of fracture?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Ulna Fracture |
| Radius Fracture |
| Monteggia Fracture |
Coding ulna fracture without specifying right, left, or bilateral can lead to claim denials and inaccurate data reporting. CDI should query for laterality.
Failure to document specific fracture type (e.g., displaced, comminuted) impacts accurate code assignment and reimbursement. CDI can clarify fracture details.
Overlooking associated injuries like radius fractures or dislocations leads to undercoding and lost revenue. Thorough documentation is crucial for accurate coding and compliance.
Q: What are the key clinical findings differentiating a simple ulna fracture from a more complex injury like a Monteggia fracture in pediatric patients?
A: While an isolated ulna fracture presents with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness along the ulnar shaft, a Monteggia fracture involves a proximal ulna fracture with concomitant radial head dislocation. Clinicians should carefully assess for radial head instability, limited forearm rotation, and ecchymosis around the elbow in pediatric patients. Radiographic imaging, including both AP and lateral views of the elbow and forearm, is crucial to confirm the diagnosis and rule out associated injuries. Explore how advanced imaging, such as MRI or CT, can further characterize complex fracture patterns or subtle dislocations in challenging cases.
Q: How do I determine the most appropriate non-operative management strategy for a stable, minimally displaced ulna fracture in an adult patient with no other comorbidities?
A: Non-operative management is often successful for stable, minimally displaced ulna fractures in adults. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, along with pain management and regular clinical follow-up. The specific type of immobilization and duration depend on factors such as fracture location, degree of displacement, and patient activity level. Consider implementing a standardized protocol for assessing fracture stability and monitoring for potential complications like malunion or nonunion. Learn more about the latest evidence-based guidelines for cast application and rehabilitation protocols for optimal functional recovery.
Patient presents with complaints of left wrist pain following a fall onto an outstretched hand. Onset of pain was acute and coincident with the fall. Patient reports localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the distal left ulna. Mechanism of injury is consistent with a possible ulna fracture. Physical examination reveals ecchymosis, edema, and point tenderness along the distal ulna. Crepitus is palpable. Range of motion is limited due to pain. Neurovascular assessment reveals intact radial and ulnar pulses, capillary refill less than 2 seconds, and normal sensation in the median, ulnar, and radial nerve distributions. Radiographic imaging of the left wrist is ordered to evaluate for ulna fracture, distal radius fracture, and other wrist injuries. Differential diagnosis includes ulnar styloid fracture, distal radius fracture, wrist sprain, and triangular fibrocartilage complex injury. Preliminary diagnosis is ulna fracture. Treatment plan includes immobilization with a splint, pain management with analgesics, and referral to orthopedics for definitive management. Patient education provided regarding fracture care, activity modification, and follow-up appointments. ICD-10 code S52. CPT codes for evaluation and management, radiographic imaging, and splinting will be determined based on services provided. Return precautions discussed with the patient, including worsening pain, numbness, tingling, or change in color of the fingers.